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Sonia Gandhi Accuses Modi Government of Undermining MGNREGA
Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi has strongly criticized the Narendra Modi-led government, alleging that it is deliberately weakening the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). She raised concerns about the stagnant budget allocation, delayed wage payments, and systemic hurdles that are impacting the scheme’s effectiveness.
Stagnant MGNREGA Funding
Gandhi pointed out that the current budget allocation for MGNREGA remains unchanged at ₹86,000 crore. However, when adjusted for inflation, this effectively amounts to a ₹4,000 crore reduction in real terms. She also noted that a significant portion of these funds, around 20%, is being used to clear pending dues from previous years, further straining the availability of resources for new job allocations.
Challenges in Wage Disbursement
Another major issue highlighted was the persistent delays in wage payments to MGNREGA workers. Gandhi attributed these delays to the mandatory implementation of the Aadhaar-based payment system and the National Mobile Monitoring System (NMMS), which she described as “exclusionary.” These systems have reportedly caused numerous technical difficulties, leading to payment delays and creating hardships for rural workers who rely on timely wages.
Calls for Enhancements in MGNREGA
Gandhi urged the government to make substantial improvements to MGNREGA to ensure its effectiveness in supporting rural employment. She advocated for an increase in the minimum wage under the scheme to ₹400 per day and an extension of guaranteed workdays from 100 to 150 per year. She emphasized that these measures are crucial in providing financial security and dignified employment to millions of rural workers.
Political Reactions and Implications
The issue of MGNREGA funding has been a point of contention among political parties. In particular, there has been ongoing conflict over the alleged withholding of MGNREGA dues to certain states. In one instance, a state government announced that it would cover MGNREGA workers’ wages from its own funds due to a lack of disbursal from the Centre. Meanwhile, political opponents accused the state government of financial mismanagement and non-compliance with fund utilization requirements.
Gandhi’s remarks have reignited the debate on MGNREGA’s future and the central government’s role in ensuring its proper functioning. As the issue continues to gain attention, demands for increased funding and policy reforms are likely to grow.
